Dear Parents,

Welcome to Band! Thank you for being a part of our musical journey! I'm sure you have many questions and concerns about band and I would be pleased to address them here.

Why Band?

So your child has decided to join band, great! The benefits of music education are abundant and range from academic to emotional, and everything in between. For more information on the academic benefits of music, I would direct you to this article from the University of North Carolina.

It is my personal philosophy that every student should be involved in music in some capacity as the benefits are too plentiful to ignore. Music is one of the only activities that simultaneously stimulates both hemispheres of the brain. Understanding the language of music has lifelong benefits.

Instruments

Helping your child choose their instrument is the main focus of early band classes. It is important that your child plays an instrument that they enjoy. I encourage you and your child to listen to many instruments before choosing. FluteClarinetSaxophoneTrumpetTromboneBaritoneSnareHowever, liking the sound is not the only factor when it comes choosing an instrument. There are 2 additional components to take into consideration

Your child's suitability for the instrument. Lip size/shape, teeth configuration, and hand size all play a role in determining potential on an instrument. Matching suitability and preference is an important first step.

Instrument distribution. Just as a soccer team cannot consist entirely of goalies, our band cannot consist of entirely one instrument! I require that students choose a 1st, 2nd, and 3rd preference in the event that their 1st choice isn't available.

Why can't my child play guitar, piano, or violin?

Guitar, piano, and
violin are not traditional concert band instruments and are generally
not taught in elementary band. If you would like to learn these
instruments, I can recommend some private teachers.Some children have already taken music lessons, that's great! Keep it up! However, I do encourage those children to choose a new instrument to challenge themselves.

At Home Practice

As your child begins this journey, your role is one of encouragement. There will be challenges and strange noises happening, but encouraging practice and listening to your child are the best things you can do. Here are some more tips:

Set a schedule. Making practice part of the daily routine means it will happen more frequently!

Have a space for practice. A consistent location will be more effective.